When things go wrong, a good bug out bag backpack will carry your equipment and help you reach your desired location. On the other hand, the best bug out bag backpack will allow for a smoother and more efficient journey, while also being cost-effective.
We offer assistance in choosing from a wide range of backpack types and brands for bugging out. Our team has extensively researched and evaluated various backpacks, resulting in the identification of the top options: the best overall, a tactical choice, and a budget-friendly option. If you require a backpack that can effortlessly keep up with you during critical times, one of our recommendations will meet your needs.
Value: Cost vs. Benefit
When considering purchasing a backpack, it is important to budget wisely and not exceed your overall budget. Avoid overspending or going overboard, and instead make a budget based on your risk level and specific needs, rather than indulging in lavish spending.
However, it is important to avoid opting for excessively inexpensive options or purchasing backpacks that are unsuitable for your needs. There is an abundance of low-cost backpacks available, as well as backpacks specifically designed for different purposes that may not meet your requirements effectively.
When considering expenses, it is crucial to avoid overspending on any particular resource, such as a backpack. It is more advisable to vary your equipment and preparedness gear in order to ensure sufficient coverage for a diverse range of situations. Our top choice is positioned at an optimal point where you can obtain excellent value from its superior features without a prohibitively high cost.
Functionality
In terms of functionality, any bag that can accommodate your equipment has the potential to be used as a bug out bag. However, it is crucial to consider additional factors. The bag should effectively store your gear in an orderly fashion and provide comfort while being carried on your back, as this has been scientifically proven to be the optimal method in most scenarios.
There are alternative options for a bug out bag such as roller bags, Pelican cases, and the traditional bandana-tied-to-a-stick method, particularly for those who cannot evacuate on foot. It can be challenging to prepare for situations like congested highways, EMP effects, and limited power resources. However, some individuals have devised strategic plans and will not need to travel by foot to their bug out locations. These prepared individuals may use caches along their evacuation route to minimize the amount of gear and supplies they need to carry. If your bug out plans become complex, remember that simplicity can often be the most effective approach.
Durability
When facing survival situations, it is essential to consider the durability of lockstitches, box stitches, heavier weight textiles, and metal zippers, even though they come at a higher cost. The reason for this is that you wouldn’t want the straps to break while navigating the challenges that arise in tough times.
Be sure to also take care of your backpack to ensure its intended durability. Avoid unnecessary exposure and refrain from storing unsheathed knives inside it, among other things. Simply keep it clean and exercise common sense.
Our Picks
Teton Scout 55
Backpacking can be considered as a recreational activity wherein individuals venture out on long journeys. Despite some variations, such as the possibility of encountering other people and having additional resources, these backpacks are specifically designed for long-distance trips. To ensure lightweightness, they utilize durable yet light fabric and mostly avoid unnecessary straps and decorations. Hence, backpacking backpacks are ideal for traveling over medium to long distances.
With a capacity of 3400 cubic inches and a weight of just 4.5 pounds, this pack is one of the cheapest options we recommend and has received numerous five-star reviews. Considering these factors, it becomes clear that this bug out bag is a winner. If your Bug Out Location (BOL) is located at a significant distance from your home, the Teton Scout 55 proves to be a reliable choice for your BOB.
5.11 Rush 72 2.0
Tactical packs are bags that are both badass and functional, as well as versatile. They not only look great, but also attract attention and compliments. However, this can be a drawback if you want to blend in. Tactical bug out bags, although a bit heavy for long distances, remain highly functional and versatile. They typically come with MOLLE and ALICE attachment points, allowing you to customize your kit based on specific threats. These backpacks are most suitable for bug out travel of low to mid-range distances, where blending in with the grey man concept is not necessary. When selecting a size, consider the amount of gear you will carry and the distance you plan to travel.
The 5.11 Rush 72 2.0 is a reliable tactical backpack option that has been highly praised by both law enforcement and military members. It has a strong reputation for its durability and resilience, making it a great choice for any SHTF situation.
Venture Pal 40L
Although Venture Pal may not be a brand that impresses your prepping group, this bag has successfully achieved a balance between price, comfort, and weight. It is difficult to find another 40-liter bag at this price that can surpass its performance in our tests.
If you need to prepare for the whole family or are on a tight budget, the Venture Pal 40L is the obvious choice for your bug out bag backpack.
Gearlist
Solar Panel + Power Bank: Goal Zero Nomad 5 Solar Panel
In order to stay informed, it is essential to ensure that your phone remains charged. The Goal Zero Nomad 5 Solar Kit is an excellent solution for this, ensuring that you can keep your devices powered up even when the grid is unavailable. Despite its compact and sleek design, this solar kit consistently provides sufficient energy to keep my devices running smoothly while in remote areas.
Radio: Midland ER210 Radio
If you find yourself in a situation where you need half the items listed, it is not wise to depend on your phone for communication. In such cases, a traditional, manually-operated Midland ER210 radio is the most reliable option for receiving news. This radio can function without sunlight or batteries and receives AM, FM, and NOAA broadcasts. Additionally, it can charge your devices and includes an LED flashlight.
Headlamp: BioLite HeadLamp 200
In order to be able to move and perform tasks during the night, even in the absence of electricity, it is advisable to have the Biolite Headlamp 200, which has a prolonged battery life and offers exceptional comfort and ease of wear.
Watch: Marathon General Purpose Quartz Composite Watch
The Marathon General Purpose Quartz Composite Watch has all the necessary features to fulfill your watch requirements during a crisis. It has a water resistance of up to 30 meters, provides self-illumination in the dark, and is both lightweight and dependable. During a first aid scenario, you can accurately document the time of injury and monitor essential vital signs such as heart rate and respiratory rate, crucial details to communicate to a first responder.
Protective Face Mask: Under Armour UA Sportsmask
A mask is capable of assisting with various types of airborne particulates, like those found in a forest fire. Under Armour offers a comfortable, versatile, and budget-friendly option that has been popular for a long time, but there are also many other good alternatives available.
Dehydrated Meals: Good To-Go 5-Day Emergency Food Kit
Good To-Go offers dehydrated food for long-term survival scenarios, ensuring you are well-prepared. Their 5-Day Emergency Food Kit includes five breakfasts and 10 entrees that can be stored for two to five years. Another beloved dehydrated option is Patagonia Provisions, known for its tasty, organic, and sustainably sourced meals — a triple win in our opinion.
Meal Bars: ProBar Meal Bars 6-Flavor Variety Pack
If you are in need of ready-to-eat food, your optimal choice would be calorie-dense bars. ProBar provides appetizing and diverse bars available in packs of 12, which have sustained me for a number of days, possibly even an extended period.
